[sdiy] optical retrofit for minis?

[Richard Wentk]

At 16:55 22/03/2005, Kevin Lightner wrote:
>Other solutions are welcomed, though if a laser is suggested, a solution 
>(two lasers?) would be needed for note priority. A modulated laser could 
>identify what note was pressed by pulse counting/timing, but once a 
>shutter (key pressed) is made, the beam would be broken and note priority 
>would be lost.

I wouldn't do this. I don't see how laser modulation would tell you which 
key was pressed unless you had some kind of optomechanical scanner, and if 
you go down that route you might as well just use individual LEDs.

There are also issues with diode life (5000 hours, or 10,000 if you're 
lucky) and also possible problems with using the system on a smoky stage.

A more conventional multi-LED based system makes a lot more sense to me.

>So here's the deal: I need some help. Programmer, engineer, board person, 
>financer.

How about bundling up a collection of projects - I'm sure you have more ;) 
- and going in search of venture capital?

Richard